How to Compare Prices Before You Buy
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Most people overpay online not because they are careless, but because comparing prices takes time. This guide covers the habits that save the most money, and how our free Before You Buy app does the comparing for you.
1. Search the exact model, not the category
The same product can appear under slightly different names. Search by brand plus model number when you can; it is the most reliable way to compare like with like.
2. Treat "compare at" and "was" prices with care
A crossed-out price is set by the seller. The real question is what the item costs at other stores today, not what one store says it used to cost.
3. Include shipping, tax and returns
A lower sticker price can cost more once shipping is added, and a cheap item with no returns is a risk. Compare the total and the return window.
4. Look one step above and one step below
Often a slightly better model costs only a little more, or a nearly identical cheaper one does the job. Comparing neighbors in price tells you whether you are paying for quality or for a name.
5. Buy from authorized sellers for high-value items
For fragrance, electronics and luxury goods, the cheapest listing is sometimes gray-market or counterfeit. Authorized sellers protect your warranty.
Let an app do the legwork
Before You Buy is our free app that lets you describe or photograph what you want and then shows what major retailers charge, plus comparable items priced above and below. Some of those links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.